Tonsillitis is an infection and swelling which occurs in tonsils. It is characterized by swollen tonsils that have purulent exudate coating of white patches, red signs, swelling of neck, eyes and face. Tonsils are located in the back of throat. Tonsillitis is of two types: chronic and acute.
- Acute Tonsillitis: This can be either viral or bacterial in origin. Actinomyces bacteria causes sub acute tonsillitis.
- Chronic Tonsillitis: This lasts for long periods if not treated. This is mainly caused by bacterial infection.
Symptoms of Tonsillitis:
Tonsillitis symptoms vary from person to person. Most common symptoms of tonsillitis include:
- Coughing
- Severe throat
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Headache
- Muscle aches that is myalgia
- Chills
- Fever
Chronic tonsillitis symptoms include:
- Flushed face
- Skin rashes
Acute tonsillitis symptoms include:
- Runny nose
- Body pains
- Bad breath
- Drooling with fever and sore throat
- Strep throat
- Pneumonia
- Ear infections
- Tiredness
- Malaise
Causes of Tonsillitis:
Tonsillitis is caused by bacteria or virus. Secretions that enter body are filtered by tonsils and becomes overwhelmed with viruses or bacteria. Health care provider determines whether tonsillitis is due to virus or bacteria and also the treatment.
Medications for Tonsillitis:
Tonsillitis go away on their own, if caused by viruses. Anti inflammatory medications, like Motrin, Advil or gargling with salt water gives relief from the pain. If symptoms worsen or lasts for more than 48 hours, seek immediate medical attention. Breathing difficulty, difficulty in swallowing should also be mentioned to the doctor.
Treatment for Tonsillitis:
Tonsillitis caused by viruses go away on its own. Medications are given to get relief from the symptoms while bacterial tonsillitis is treated with antibiotics.
Home Remedies for Tonsillitis:
- Steam: Steam should inhaled for 20 minutes. Mouth must be closed and suck air from throat instead from nose.
- Garlic: Crush garlic and place it in boiling water. Inhale the steam. This kills infection immediately.
- Turmeric: Turmeric powder also acts as a natural antiseptic. Add garlic and salt to boiling water and use it for gargling. Gargling should be done thrice a day.
